What is Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing is an effective breakthrough treatment that can be used to correct a number of skin care concerns such as aging skin, facial wrinkles, dark spots, and acne scarring. The treatment works by removing top layers of skin tissue and creates microscopic wounds, forcing the skin to heal itself and enabling newer, younger looking skin to emerge. CO2 Laser treatment is one of the most effective skin care procedures on the market.

There are two types of fractional laser resurfacing that Dr. Jacono performs at his medical spa.  The first is fractional erbium laser resurfacing, and the other is fractional CO2 laser resurfacing.  Both lasers are designed to treat areas of the face and they both have unique benefits in their application.

Up until a few years ago, there were 2 different types of laser treatments available for aesthetic enhancements.  They were known as ablative and non-ablative.  The ablative version was used to vaporize skin tissue that was unwanted using extremely high temperatures.  This type of laser required patients to have a lengthy recovery and healing process.  The non-ablative treatment does not remove skin tissue at all.  Instead, it is used to stimulate the reproduction of collagen and cause new skin cells to grow.  This allows for a shorter recovery time period but also requires patients to come back for multiple treatments that attain gradual results.

Fraxel® Erbium Laser Treatment vs Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing

The Fraxel® Erbium Laser Treatment targets the aging and damaged layers of skin on a patient’s face, and it works by creating tiny microscopic wounds well beneath the outer dermal layer.  This causes the natural production of both collagen and new skin cells to form.  One of the benefits of this Fraxel® laser is that it uses both the powerful ablative laser combined with the gentle non-ablative laser so that patients have faster healing and less downtime.  This treatment will require patients to come back and repeat the process roughly 3 to 6 more times to achieve their desired results.

One of the benefits of Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is that it only requires patients to do 1 to 2 treatments.  The downside, however, is that is has a much longer recovery period.  In most cases, patients will need about a week of downtime and the application of ointment to the skin will be required.  Patient’s are encouraged to take a week off of work after having this treatment.

Both lasers will treat effectively:

• Age Spots
• Facial Wrinkles
• Acne Scars
• Brown Spots
• Melasma

How Does Laser Resurfacing Work

During the laser resurfacing process, the laser beam fractionates, breaking the beam into tiny shafts of lights.  The light is able to penetrate the skin, and columns of skin are removed. The remaining skin aids in the healing process, and the skin is visibly improved. Signs of aging and scarring fade away as the skin heals, leaving patients with smoother, healthier skin.

What Are the Benefits of Fractional CO2 Laser Treatments?

This treatment can diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, get rid of sunspots and discoloration, and heal leftover acne scarring. The full extent of these results may not be apparent until three to six months after the procedure, but most patients see visible improvements after the initial healing process.

Who Is a Candidate for Laser Resurfacing?

This treatment is ideal for people looking to correct deep wrinkles, textural irregularities, pigmentation issues, sun damage, acne scarring, and dullness. It is an aggressive procedure, and it is typically used for dramatic improvements.

This treatment is not advisable for women who are pregnant or people who have recently used Accutane. People with skin of color should discuss the procedure with Dr. Jacono, as it can lead to hyperpigmentation.

Because this treatment is aggressive, it is especially important that patients take care of their skin in the months after the procedure. The skin may be sensitive for one to three months after the CO2 laser treatment is performed, and patients should adhere to the skin care regimen suggested by Dr. Jacono during this period. They should also wear sunscreen daily, as sun damage can negatively impact the results of the treatment.

The Fractional CO2 Laser is a good choice for people looking for major results. If you’re interested in the learning more about this procedure, contact the office of Dr. Jacono for a consultation or call us at (516) 773-2424.

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